Other than a release on construction spending, last week’s economic readings were dominated by labor and employment data including ADP Payrolls, Non-Farm Payrolls and National Unemployment. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.
Construction Spending Drops in August
Commerce Department readings on construction spending indicate that overall spending fell in August to -0.70 percent; this reading was lower than the expected positive reading of 0.10 percent. July’s reading showed a drop of 0.30 percent in overall construction spending. The decrease in August spending was largely the result of pull backs on public construction spending, which declined 2.0 percent after July’s decline of 3.50 percent in July. Public construction spending is 8.80 percent year-over-year., and August’s reading was the lowest since March 2014.
Private sector construction spending fell 0.30 percent in August. Residential construction fell by 0.20 percent within the private sector reading. Reasons for falling construction spending include impending winter weather and previously cited labor shortages. Shortages of available homes and high demand for homes are creating pressure on construction companies to build more homes.
Labor Reports: Job Growth Slows in Public and Private Sector
ADP reported 154,000 private sector jobs created in September against August’s reading of 175,000 new private-sector jobs. September’s reading showed the lowest growth rate since April. Analysts said that lower readings for job growth could be expected as job openings are filled.
According to the government’s Non-Farm Payrolls report for September, 156,000 new jobs were added, which fell short of downwardly-revised expectations of 170,000 new jobs added. Analysts said that a reading of 120,000 jobs added represented a healthy rate of jobs growth. As more workers return to or join the workforce, job openings can be expected to decrease. Healthy growth in jobs may signal the Fed to increase interest rates in December.
National unemployment rose from 4.90 percent to 5.00 percent in September; variances can be expected in month-to-month readings that are considered more volatile than quarterly or annual readings.
New jobless claims correlated to fewer job openings and fell to a reading of 248,000 new claims 256,000 new claims were expected based on the prior week’s reading of 254,000 new claims.
Mortgage Rates Nearly Unchanged
Average mortgage rates were unchanged with the expectation of a decrease of one basis point for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages to 2.80 percent. Average rates for 30 and 15 year fixed rate mortgages were unchanged at 3.42 percent and 2.72 percent Discount points were unchanged at 0.50 percent for fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.
What’s Ahead
This week’s scheduled economic reports are few due to the Columbus Day holiday Monday. Along with weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims, reports on job openings and consumer sentiment will be released.
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3703 N Wintergreen Way
Avondale, AZ 85392
$455,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,223
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6648052
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Explore this extraordinary find in Garden Lake Estates, with one of the largest lots in the community. The backyard, with an elongated covered patio, finished concrete work, elegant palm trees, and finished with rock, awaits your personal touch to make it truly yours. Step inside to an open and airy interior, highlighted by an upgraded kitchen with quartz countertops, a charming bay window, and brand-new stainless steel appliances. Freshly painted cabinets and a spacious kitchen island with a breakfast bar enhance the overall allure. The openness continues into the primary suite with vaulted ceilings, two spacious closets, separate bathtub and shower, dual sinks, private toilet room, and a garden-style tub for your relaxation. Don't miss this.
2339 N Wind Drive
Pinetop, AZ 85935
$455,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,790
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6653087
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
GREAT LOCATION in Pinetop Country Club. FURNISHED townhome tucked back overlooking the common area w/ tons of tall Ponderosa Pine trees. True pride of ownership in this 3 bed - 2 bath home. You are greeted with a entry that opens into a large great room, open concept, vaulted ceilings with bamboo accent, gas fireplace, huge kitchen with tons of cabinets & counterspace + stainless steel appliances. This home has a split bedroom floor plan. There is a large pantry w/ a lovely laundry room with wonderful space to work. The Master/Primary overlooks the tall pine trees with amazing privacy. The closet is huge and the bath has lots of space with 2 vanities. The 2 other bedrooms, one has a desk with a fold out couch plus a fold out twin bed. The deck is incredibly spacious - READ MORE Everything else in the home AND garage STAYS! This home boasts of beautiful high quality wood laminate floors throughout (NO carpet)! This cabin in the woods comes fully furnished. What you see when you view the home, is what you get. It is move in ready. Check out the cupboards for dishes, etc. The great room has a ceiling to floor stone gas fireplace. Beautiful window coverings throughout! The garage is oversized and there is also an extra parking spot. Imagine living in the White Mountains of Arizona where you have 4 beautiful seasons and where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the 40 lakes and over 600 miles of rivers and streams. In addition to the amazing fishing, this area has one of the most extensive trail systems in the southwest for hiking, biking, horseback riding, quadding and more. Sunrise Ski Resort is also just 40 minutes away with 3 beautiful mountains to ski, snow board or sled. If shopping is your interest, you will love the antique stores and the multitude of arts and craft shows that happen in the summer. The music festivals have something to fit everyone's enjoyment. Do you love to golf? There are 7 amazing golf courses, 3 that are public. The White Mountains, where this home/cabin is the best kept secret of Arizona! Come and explore and enhance your living! Pinetop-Lakeside was also voted 'Best Cabin Region in the U.S... Embrace the MAGIC!
1849 W 21st Avenue
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$455,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,885
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6671957
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
THIS GORGEOUS 3 BED 2.5 BATH HOME SITS IN THE GATED COMMUNITY OF BELLA CORONA, WITH THE MAJESTIC SUPERSTITION MOUNTAINS AS A BACKDROP. THE COMMUNITY OFFERS A SPARKLING POOL, BASKETBALL COURT, AND LUSH GREENBELTS . INSIDE, AN OPEN FLOOR PLAN SEAMLESSLY CONNECTS THE DINING AREA, KITCHEN, AND LIVING ROOM. THE STYLISH KITCHEN BOASTS A LARGE CENTER ISLAND, QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS, AMPLE CABINETRY, AND PENDANT LIGHTING. THE UPPER-LEVEL HOUSES ALL BEDROOMS AND LAUNDRY, INCLUDING A SPLIT MASTER WITH A SPACIOUS WALK-IN CLOSET , SUPER BATH, & PRIVATE BATHROOM. THE BACKYARD BOASTS A COVERED PATIO PERFECT FOR RELAXATION OR ENTERTAINING. THE GATED COMMUNITY, HEATED POOL, SPA, AND DOG PARK. Buyers & buyers agents are to verify all facts & figure ***5K SELLER CONTRIBUTIONS TO BUYERS CLOSING COST ***
1102 W Glendale Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85021
$455,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,928
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6681045
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Uptown Phoenix with this charming townhome nestled in a gated community. Boasting 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and vaulted ceilings in the living room, this home exudes spaciousness and style. Located right next to the community pool, relaxation and leisure are just steps away. Whether you're starting your homeownership journey or seeking an excellent rental opportunity, this townhome is the perfect fit. Enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of Uptown and North-Central Phoenix, where trendy eateries, boutique shops, and cultural attractions await your exploration. With quick access to highways, commuting is a breeze, ensuring you're never far from the excitement of the city. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to own a piece of Uptown allure Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Uptown Phoenix with this charming townhome nestled in a gated community. Boasting 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and vaulted ceilings in the living room, this home exudes spaciousness and style. Located right next to the community pool, relaxation and leisure are just steps away. Whether you're starting your homeownership journey or seeking an excellent rental opportunity, this townhome is the perfect fit. Enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of Uptown and North-Central Phoenix, where trendy eateries, boutique shops, and cultural attractions await your exploration. With quick access to highways, commuting is a breeze, ensuring you're never far from the excitement of the city. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to own a piece of Uptown Phoenix's allure. Book a tour today and experience the unmatched charm of this delightful townhome.
